Tree Stand Safety – Don’t Leave Home Without It
Every year I hear of someone that had an accident involving treestand setup or use. This blog will explain the steps you should take to stay safe while using a treestand.
1. Use a full body fall restraint system from the moment you step off the ground. It is surprising how many people fall from treestands that were wearing a safety harness, but it was not attached to anything when they fell. Most accidents happen when transitioning from climbing the steps to being on the stand, so it doesn’t make sense to climb all the way to the top, get situated in your stand, and then reach up to attach your harness to the tree. Using a safety line should go hand in hand with your harness. It is also important to use a linemen’s rope or belt when you are climbing the tree for the first time to install your safety rope.
2. Replace straps BEFORE they need it. I have several places that I have used the same tree for many years because it is either in a very productive location or it is the only tree that works in that area. Even though I may use the same tree, I still like to slightly modify the direction or height of the stand each year and also change out the main strap. Tree growth can stress and damage supporting straps, chains, and/or buckles. You should always inspect your stand for signs of wear, damage, deterioration, or vandalism before using it. Every strap will fail eventually, but why risk it and try to extend the life of your strap when replacements are rather cheap.
3. Don’t be afraid to make a little noise when setting up a treestand. If you are like me, you want to get your treestand installed with as little commotion as possible, but safety should always override the need for stealth. If your treestand is in a good enough location, it really shouldn’t matter that you bump some deer during setup, especially if you get it mounted well before hunting season.
4. Check out the Treestand Safety Course. Watch this video for the latest information provided by huntercourse.com and the TMA (Treestand Manufacturers Association). It contains useful information and only takes about 23 minutes. I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable hunting season this year, and please remember to wear (and attach) your safety harness!
Your Cart
Categories
- Attractants 26
- CWD 1
- Deer Management 57
- EHD 2
- Food Plots 13
- Hunting 84
- Land Management 16
- Minerals 25
- Shed Hunting 3
- Supplements 33
- Turkey Hunting 6
Browse Tags
Products
-
Mineral Dirt 180 - 20lb
$36.99
-
-
Whiteout Frenzy
$103.90
-
-
Summer CRUSH
$39.99 – $129.99
-
-
Ani-Shield Base Mix
$59.99
-